A Culinary Journey Through Brazilian Cuisine: Must-Try Dishes
The vibrant and diverse Brazilian cuisine is a delightful melting pot of influences ranging from indigenous roots to European and African traditions. From mouthwatering barbecued meats to sweet treats, there's no shortage of delicious dishes to discover when you visit. Here are some of the must-try dishes from Brazilian cuisine.
1. Barbecued Meat (Churrasco)
While Brazil and Argentina duke it out for the title of 'barbecue capital' in South America, the Brazilian approach is famous for its generous portions and slow, leisurely preparation over charcoal or wood. Premium cuts such as picanha or rump cap are seasoned with nothing more than coarse salt and grilled to perfection. In churrascarias, waiters slice every imaginable meat from sausages to wild boar right onto your plate, so be sure to wear loose clothes.
2. Moqueca (moo-kek-a)
Mokeque is more than just a fish stew; it's a theatrical affair served in a clay pot at the table, with a fiery burst of steam. Commonly found in Bahia and Espírito Santo, this dish features fish and/or seafood stewed with diced tomatoes, onions, and coriander. The Capixabas include annatto seeds for a natural red color, while the Baianos offer a heavier version with palm oil, peppers, and coconut milk. Accompanying this, you'll find farofa, ají, and a spicy fish porridge called piri piri.
3. Cacha?a
Dating back to the 1500s, cacha?a is the base for Brazil's national drink, the caipirinha. It's a clear, unaged spirit that is aged in wooden barrels for more refined options. Other non-alcoholic options to refresh after indulging include a sweet fizzy soft drink called Guaraná Antarctica,
4. Brigadeiros
A staple of Brazilian culture, brigadeiros are simple chocolate truffles that are a favorite at children's parties. Made by simmering condensed milk, cocoa powder, and butter, these sweet balls are rolled in cocoa powder for a decadent taste. While some find them overly sweet, others can't resist these treats, which bring back fond memories of childhood.
5. P?o de Queijo
This cheese-filled snack is a delightful combination of yuca flour, eggs, and curado cheese from Minas Gerais. The gluten-free rolls, crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, are a common sight at breakfasts and snacks. Try the special versions that are filled with cream cheese or meat for an extra flavor kick.
6. Acarajé
One of the most calorific street snacks, acarajé is a spicy fritter made from black-eyed peas, palm oil, and puréed onions. Served piping hot, this dish is stuffed with shrimp and a rich, spicy mix of cashews, bread, and other ingredients. The quintessential Bahian dish is best enjoyed with a liberal sprinkle of chilli sauce.
7. Quindim
This succulent yellow sweet is a specialty from Bahia, made with eggs, sugar, and coconut and often enhanced with butter. The bottom of the quindim is golden and dense, while the top is smooth and firm. The word 'quindim' is said to be derived from 'kintiti,' a Kikongo term meaning 'delicacy,' reflecting the importance of this treat in Bahian cuisine.
8. A?aí (a-sa-ee)
A?aí, the purple berry that is celebrated for its superfood status, is a key ingredient in many a Caipirinha. It's also consumed as a fresh frozen dessert, often topped with granola and banana slices, or used in various juices and even alcoholic beverages like a?aí vodka and beer. This versatile fruit is a major part of Amazonian cuisine and is widely enjoyed across Brazil.
9. Feijoada
This hearty stew made with black beans, sausages, and various cuts of pork is a beloved dish that is spread across Brazil. Feijoada is labor-intensive, requiring up to 24 hours to prepare. It's usually served with side dishes such as farofa, kale, orange slices, and, of course, a good dose of cacha?a to help with digestion. This dish is most commonly eaten on Wednesdays and Saturdays in Brazil.
10. Fried Bar Snacks
No visit to Brazil is complete without sampling a selection of fried bar snacks. These snacks include pastéis, deep-fried pastries filled with cheese or beef, cream hearts of palm, and bolinhos, little balls typically made with salt cod. Don't miss the popular coxinha that comes in the shape of a voluptuous thigh, filled with shredded chicken and mashed potato and seasoned to perfection.
Whether you're in search of a mouthwatering barbecue or a sweet confection, Brazilian cuisine offers a wide array of dishes to satisfy every palate. Explore the rich and varied flavors of Brazil's culinary landscape.